Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR) has tackled deeply rooted challenges within the NCS since taking office in June 2023. For these reasons and many more, he has been chosen by the management of LEADERSHIP Newspapers as Public Service Person Of The Year 2024.
Adeniyi has tackled systemic inefficiencies, entrenched corruption, and outdated operational practices in the NCS’s operations. With his clear vision and unwavering dedication, he has systematically restructured the agency, demonstrating the remarkable potential for reform within Nigeria’s public sector.
Adeniyi’s commitment to simplifying customs operations and enhancing trade facilitation has been central to his approach. One of his pivotal reforms was dissolving the excessive enforcement layers that had previously hampered efficient trade flows.
By merging the Strike Force Teams into the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), he reduced checkpoints from five to two per route, thereby streamlining trade and reducing the opportunities for corrupt practices at border points. This reform has enhanced operational transparency and supported legitimate trade, setting a new standard for efficiency within the NCS.
Under Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS has also strengthened international collaboration, notably with the World Customs Organisation (WCO), reinforcing its commitment to global best practices in customs administration.
The acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B aircraft for air surveillance exemplifies Adeniyi’s strategic approach to combating smuggling across Nigeria’s borders. Known for its versatility and rugged capabilities, this aircraft is now a critical asset for NCS’s border security efforts, enabling more effective patrols across even the most remote area.
Another hallmark of Adeniyi’s tenure is the emphasis on modernisation through technology. He has prioritised innovative solutions, including the Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme, which simplifies which simplifies customs procedures for compliant traders and enhances their global competitiveness.
Additionally, the launch of the Time Release Study (TRS) and the integration of geospatial technology demonstrate his commitment to harnessing technology to advance customs efficiency and accuracy.
Adeniyi and 25 other distinguished individuals and organisations who have made exceptional contributions to governance, business, social impact, and public service in Nigeria were nominated by the LEADERSHIP Newspapers’ board of editors after extensive deliberations at a meeting held in November 2024 at the company’s headquarters in Abuja.
Adeniyi and other nominees will be celebrated for their outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment to national development at the LEADERSHIP Conference and Awards ceremony next year.
Alhaji Aliko Mohammad Dangote, Nigeria’s foremost industrialist and philanthropist, won the Person Of The Year Award for immensely contributing to the nation’s economy. His philanthropic efforts make him a deserving recipient of this highest honour.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, won the 2024 Quinquennial Award For Governance and Infrastructure, a rare recognition by the LEADERSHIP Group Limited.
Also, for 2024, six state governors were jointly nominated for the Governor of the Year award. They are Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom, Mallam Umar A. Namadi of Jigawa State, Peter Mbah of Enugu State, and Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke of Osun State.
The governors were recognised for driving sustainable growth, infrastructural development, and policy innovations in their respective states.
Dame (Dr) Adaora Umeoji, GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, clinched the Banker of the Year award for her role in transforming the banking industry.
Other remarkable business leaders, including the CEO of NORD Automobiles Ltd, Oluwatobi Ajayi, won the CEO of the Year award for the Private Sector) while Bamanga Usman Jada, MD/CEO of the Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority, clinched the CEO of the Year award for the Public Sector.
AVSATEL Communications Limited won the Company of the Year award in other award categories, while ARCO Engineering Limited is the Oil & Gas Local Content Champion of the Year.
The Social Impact Person of the Year award will be presented to Olori Ivie Atuwatse III for her tireless efforts in championing education and healthcare initiatives. OPAY won the Fintech Company of the Year award for promoting financial inclusion in Nigeria. At the same time, Alternative Bank clinched the Most Innovative Bank of the Year award for its pioneering work in digital banking.
Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal will be honoured as Environmental Impact Person of the Year for his leadership in advancing environmental policies and addressing climate change.
The Outstanding Young Person of the Year 2024 award will go to the ENACTUS team from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi. They are recognised for championing innovation and sustainability. Terra Cube will receive the Product of the Year award for its innovative solutions in sustainable living.